S – Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. 

Proverbs 13:12 ESV

O – Commentary:

It is good for a person to have hope, but if it is not fulfilled for a long time (deferred means “put off or long drawn out”) then he experiences disappointment (his heart becomes sick). But when a hope is fulfilled (cf. vv. 4, 19), a person is refreshed. The gratification of hope gives encouragement like a tree that gives life 

 Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 933.

A – This proverb has gravity to it.  The principle is foundational and simple but living it out is challenging.  None of us like to wait.  Patience and trusting in God’s timing is tough because it rarely aligns with our timing.  When our expectation is answered, it is amazing how fulfilling and good it feels.  The tension between waiting and fulfillment is real and one of our greatest growing areas as a Christian.

R – Heavenly Father, you are good and your timing is perfect.  It isn’t easy to wait but we choose to put our faith and trust that your timing is what we need. Empower us to grow in our patience so we can honor you authentically in this area.